For busy parents and grocery enthusiasts alike, September presents the perfect time to shop for fruit at Costco.
As a working parent juggling family activities, I’ve found that Costco not only offers convenience but also provides a wide selection of high-quality fruits, especially during this transitional month.
September is particularly special because it combines the best of summer and fall harvests, offering an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce at unbeatable prices.
A Mix of Summer and Fall Fruits
September is the ideal month for fruit shopping at Costco because it bridges the gap between summer’s end and the start of fall. You’ll find a delightful combination of summer staples like berries, along with exciting fall flavors such as apple pears and Bartlett pears.
One standout in Costco’s September selection is their diverse melon collection. Tuscan melons, known for their aromatic fragrance, are a must-try, while Hami melons provide a unique twist with their cantaloupe-like appearance and crunchy texture.
Additionally, Costco’s fall strawberries boast exceptional sweetness, a pleasant surprise for those craving the last of summer’s produce.
Moreover, September still offers classic stone fruits such as plums, peaches, and nectarines, which are available in pristine condition. These fruits continue to provide juicy, flavorful bites as they wrap up their season.
Fall Favorites Return in September
As the season shifts, fall flavors make their triumphant return to Costco. One of the top picks for fall is the crunchy and fragrant apple pear, commonly known as the Asian pear. These crisp, sweet fruits are perfect for fall snacking or incorporating into salads and desserts.
Honey mangoes, also known as champagne mangoes, are another seasonal highlight available in September.
These sweet and buttery mangoes are a favorite during this time of year. Bartlett pears, known for their consistent quality, also make a comeback, adding to the excitement of fall’s fruit selection.
If you’re an apple lover, September offers varieties like Gala and SugarBee, perfect for enjoying fresh or using in baked goods.
During this month, Costco also offers several types of grapes, sweet clementines, and figs, all perfect for snacking, salads, or even desserts.
| Fruit | Seasonal or Year-Round | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Tuscan Melons | Seasonal | Extremely fragrant |
| Hami Melons | Seasonal | Crunchy texture, peachy hue |
| Fall Strawberries | Seasonal | Sweet and flavorful |
| Apple Pears (Asian Pears) | Seasonal | Crisp and fragrant |
| Bartlett Pears | Seasonal | Consistently delicious |
| Honey Mangoes (Champagne Mangoes) | Seasonal | Sweet, buttery flavor |
| Gala Apples | Seasonal | Fresh, juicy |
| SugarBee Apples | Seasonal | Unique flavor, great for snacking or baking |
| Grapes | Seasonal | Juicy, sweet varieties |
| Clementines | Seasonal | Sweet and easy to peel |
| Figs | Seasonal | Perfect for desserts or snacks |
| Organic Bananas | Year-round | $2.49 for 3-pound bunch |
| Lemons & Limes | Year-round | Always juicy, perfect for drinks and cooking |
| Kiwi (Golden and Green) | Year-round | Great for adding fiber to your diet |
Year-Round Staples at Costco
Even outside the seasonal fruits, Costco consistently stocks fruit staples that are perfect for any time of year. Organic bananas, priced at $2.49 for a 3-pound bunch, are a steal. Their lemons and limes are not only affordable but also incredibly juicy, making them a go-to for cooking, baking, and beverages.
Golden and green kiwi are also readily available, offering a high-fiber fruit option that adds a refreshing tang to your meals or snacks.
How to Make the Most of Costco’s Bulk Quantities
While Costco is known for its bulk items, that doesn’t mean you need to worry about fruit going bad before you finish it. If you prioritize eating the more perishable items first and incorporate fruits into your daily recipes, you’ll find that you can enjoy everything you buy without waste.
For example, kale salads with grapes and cheddar are an excellent way to use up extra grapes, while pear and gorgonzola pizza offers a savory way to enjoy fall pears.
If you have an abundance of fruit, consider making crisps, crumbles, or cobblers, which are perfect for using up any leftovers. Smoothies are also a fantastic way to combine multiple fruits and enjoy them in a quick and delicious format.
The Bottom Line
If you’ve been bypassing the produce section at Costco in favor of pantry or frozen items, September is the perfect month to give it another look.
With a mix of seasonal summer and fall fruits, along with year-round staples, Costco’s fruit selection is diverse, affordable, and high-quality. Whether you’re shopping for a busy family or just love fresh produce, September at Costco offers some of the best fruit deals of the year.
FAQs
1. What fruits are in season at Costco in September?
Costco offers a mix of summer and fall fruits like strawberries, plums, peaches, apple pears, and Bartlett pears in September.
2. Are Costco’s organic bananas a good deal?
Yes, Costco’s organic bananas are a steal at just $2.49 for a 3-pound bunch, making them a great value for families.
3. How can I prevent fruit from going bad when buying in bulk?
Prioritize eating the more perishable fruits first and incorporate them into recipes like salads, desserts, and smoothies to use them up quickly.
4. What’s special about Costco’s Tuscan melons?
Costco’s Tuscan melons are known for their extremely fragrant aroma, which can linger for days, making them a unique and flavorful fruit.
5. What year-round fruit staples should I buy at Costco?
Costco consistently stocks organic bananas, lemons, limes, and golden and green kiwi, making them perfect year-round options for any fruit lover.